A rural Suffolk village

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Drinkstone is a popular and lively small village situated south of the A14 between the market towns of Bury St Edmunds (8 miles) and Stowmarket (7 miles). The resources seem modest – about 650 people, a Playing Field and children’s playground, two Windmills (one Grade I listed), some well kept allotments and a 14th century Church. Perhaps because of the lack of amenities such as a shop or pub, village individuals work hard to foster ‘togetherness’ and a considerable number of clubs, sports, activities and social events go on in this very community minded village. The determination of Drinkstone villagers paid off in the rising from the ashes of the old 1914-18 War Memorial/ Village Hall, a fantastic new Village Hall, which is very well used by villagers and hirers alike.

There is some of the best walking in Suffolk on the network of footpaths that cross and surround the village.

The village is surrounded by arable farmland. In recent years much of the farmland closest to the village has been reclassified for equestrian use. Within the village boundary former farm buildings and yards have been redeveloped for housing, and sit happily alongside the period cottages and country houses.

After a number of significant housing developments in the latter half of the 20th century, the pace of development has slowed, and is now limited to the conversion or extension of existing buildings. Over the last 20 years or so the village school, shop, post office and pub have all closed. Nevertheless, this is not a village set in the past; it is a popular choice for people working in Bury and elsewhere in Suffolk – and even London. Approximately 30% of the homes turnover every three years and a quick browse of the calendarwill see that there is a lot going on.

You can also read about the two historic Mills and their history via the link in the sidebar.